Start by putting masking tape on the canvas edges to protect the yarns from getting frayed.

Count 41 stitches across and 60 stitches down and outline the outside rectangle of the case with a waterproof pen.

Start with stitching the mauve colour in the basketweave tent stitch down the right side of the canvas.

Then stitch the grey colour in the tent stitch in an outline around the shape for the Bargello stitch, starting at the top right

Note that the canvas holes are shared between the Bargello and the tent stitch

Stitch the Bargello stitch in the gradated yellows in the top right, just as you had practiced it. Don’t forget to double the yarn so the canvas doesn’t show through.

The design on the top left mirrors the top right

You’ll notice that the design is repeated: Stitch the top including the top yellow shapes and the white ‘link’ shape below it according to the chart.

After that, you only need to repeat the design as you stitch down the canvas.

Always use the grey colour to outline your shapes before your fill them in. (as indicated in photo)

Refer back to the chart for finishing the bottom

STITCHING TIPS

If you don’t want to wear it on your belt, you could stitch it a second time so the design is on both sides to make a mobile phone case for your handbag. The yarn quantities I’ve included in this newsletter will be enough to do this.

If you’re using 13 gauge canvas, you may not need to double the yarn for the Bargello stitch. Practice it first and judge for yourself.

If you do double the cotton thread, make sure it doesn’t twist as you stitch it. Keeping the thread straight gives a wonderful smooth appearance, and shows off the lovely dull sheen of the rich cotton colours.

FINISHING

SEWING TIPS

The cell phone case was made up in light grey cotton fabric for the backing, with 1” bottom and side panels in the same fabric. It was finished off with a light grey lining, and a snap closure.(A Velcro closure would work as well.)

But the finishing fabric colour could be bolder! Why not a fuchsia or purple? Any colour from the cell phone case palette will work.

For thinner cell phones, you might consider a knife edge finish, instead of the 1” panels.

To wear the case as a Mini-Belt Bag

The same light grey fabric was also used to sew a full width narrow channel on the back for slipping the belt through.

Another idea: You could also make a wide loop of the same finishing fabric on the back, and attach it with Velcro over your belt to fit any belt width.

As a cell phone case for your handbag:

You could make it up as described above… simply without the back channel.

You could also stitch the design twice to have the design on both sides: even alternate the vibrant Bargello colours the second time! Why not!